Saphirblau (Edelstein-Trilogie, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Kerstin Gier's Saphirblau (Sapphire Blue), the second book in the Edelstein-Trilogie (Precious Stone Trilogy), continues the adventures of Gwendolyn Shepherd, a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers she's a time-traveler destined to fulfill a prophecy. Unlike the first book, Rubinrot (Ruby Red), where Gwendolyn reluctantly embraced her destiny, Saphirblau finds her struggling with the weight of her powers and the complexities of time travel.

The central plot revolves around Gwendolyn's desperate attempt to save her beloved fiancé, Gideon de Villiers, who has been sent back in time by a rival time traveler, the enigmatic Xemerius. Gideon's disappearance throws Gwendolyn into a whirlwind of unexpected alliances and dangerous encounters as she races against time to find him. Her journey takes her to various points in history, including 18th-century France and the Victorian era, each filled with its own unique challenges and historical figures.

Throughout her travels, Gwendolyn is accompanied by her loyal friends and allies, including her best friend, Leslie, and the charming, if somewhat mischievous, time-traveling guardian, Paul. However, their relationship dynamics shift significantly. Gwendolyn's feelings for Gideon are fiercely tested by her growing attraction to Paul, forcing her to confront her emotional complexities amidst the chaos of time travel. The ever-present threat of the rival time-travelers adds another layer of tension, particularly the manipulative and powerful ancestor of the rival family, Anastasius.

Xemerius, a mysterious, talking griffin, remains a crucial character, acting as both a source of guidance and comic relief. His snarky comments and occasional meddling add a touch of humor to the often-intense situations. The enigmatic nature of Xemerius and his seemingly contradictory actions continue to fuel the mystery surrounding the prophecy and the purpose of the time travelers.

Key themes in Saphirblau include the consequences of choice, the complexities of love and relationships, and the burden of destiny. Gwendolyn grapples with the ethical implications of her actions, constantly questioning whether she's making the right decisions and accepting the devastating consequences that her choices might entail. Her relationships with Gideon and Paul explore the nuances of love and loyalty, highlighting the difficulties of navigating intense emotions amidst extraordinary circumstances. The overarching theme is about accepting her power and finding her own way within the predetermined path of the prophecy.

The book ends with Gwendolyn finding Gideon, but not without significant sacrifices and a deepened understanding of her role in the larger narrative. The ending leaves the reader eager to discover how the final installment will resolve the remaining mysteries and the impending conflicts.